I have some sheet metal to patch the hole after cutting out the rust. Question... The black strip on the bus is that structure and need to save it or can I cut back a little and end it? I'd try and save as much as I can just checking.

The "rub rails" on skoolies add significant side impact strength. That is their principal design role. Some people in the trade even refer to them as the "torpedo belt". You should remove and replace it after patching the rust hole. And I would not be surprised if you found a lot more rust underneath it. Mine had a ton due to the fact they had never applied any paint at all to the metal there. I'm guessing (hoping) the newer buses at least have some paint beneath them.

The "rub rails" on skoolies add significant side impact strength. That is their principal design role. Some people in the trade even refer to them as the "torpedo belt". You should remove and replace it after patching the rust hole. And I would not be surprised if you found a lot more rust underneath it. Mine had a ton due to the fact they had never applied any paint at all to the metal there. I'm guessing (hoping) the newer buses at least have some paint beneath them.

Thank you. I will put it back on. I'm guessing you can drill out the other rivets in there right or is there another way? It doesn't LOOK like any rust further on back BUT I'm not holding my breath.

I have some sheet metal to patch the hole after cutting out the rust. Question... The black strip on the bus is that structure and need to save it or can I cut back a little and end it? I'd try and save as much as I can just checking.